Bible Commentaries
Matthew 20

Verses 1-34

One great principle of rewards is laid down in this parable. It is that they will be given, not according to length or amount of service, but according to fidelity to opportunities.

The Master was now taking the last journey to Jerusalem, fully conscious of its deep significance in His mission. Beyond the Cross He saw the glory of the new life. He called His disciples to Him, and told them of His coming death and resurrection. Here as in every case during the last sad days His account of His own suffering to come is broken in on by some little question of precedence among them. We are tempted to be angry with them. He was not. Patiently He laid down for them the principles of true greatness, service even unto sacrifice.

In the neighborhood of Jericho He performed a gracious act. While on His way to ratify in actual word and deed what, in effect, has already taken place-His rejection as King- two needy men sought a favor of Him as "the Son of David," a manner of address that signified their acknowledgment of His Messiahship. Straightway His compassion was touched, and He exercised His wondrous power to answer their prayer, and gave them sight.